Breathing Meditation

The first stage of meditation is to stop distractions and make your mind clearer and more lucid. This can be done by practicing simple breathing meditation.

Choose a quiet place sit in a comfortable posture. You can either sit in the traditional cross-legged posture, such as Sukhasana, or in any other position that is comfortable to you. If we wish, you may sit in a chair, too. The most important thing is to keep your back erect to stop our mind from getting sluggish or sleepy.

You are supposed to sit with your eyes partially closed and turn your attention to your breathing. Breathe naturally, through your nostrils, without trying to control your breath. Just try to become aware of the sensation of your breath as it enters and leaves your nostrils. This is the object of your meditation. You ought to try and concentrate on your breathing to the exclusion of everything else.

At first, your mind may be very busy. You may even feel that the meditation is making your mind busier. However, in reality, you are just getting to be more aware of how busy your mind actually is. There may also be a great temptation to follow the different thoughts as they arise. However, you must try and  resist this – remain focused single-pointedly on the sensation of your breath.

If you feel that your mind has wandered and is following your thoughts, immediately return it to your breathing. Repeat this as many times as necessary until your mind settles on your breath and observe the results.